Building a Conglomerate in Another World

Chapter 228: Hiring a Spy

A day later.

The White House, Washington D.C.

The room was dimly lit, the warm glow of a single lamp casting long shadows against the walls of the presidential study. The faint crackle of the fireplace was the only sound, a stark contrast to the chaos brewing outside the White House. Matthew Hesh sat with his hands clasped together, his fingers tapping rhythmically against the polished oak desk. The weight of the moment pressed down on him like an anvil.

Bradford was tightening the noose. The war declaration loomed. Congress was dangerously close to overriding his veto. Public sentiment was still divided, but the war hawks had the advantage—controlling the press, manipulating the narrative, and ensuring that any hesitation on Matthew’s part looked like weakness.

He needed something—anything—to turn the tide.

The door creaked open, and Collins stepped in, his expression grave. Behind him was a man dressed in an unassuming gray suit, his demeanor unremarkable, his presence forgettable. But Matthew knew that was precisely the kind of person who could slip into places unnoticed.

"Mr. President," Collins said carefully, "this is Nathaniel Rhodes."

Rhodes stepped forward and gave a slight nod. "An honor, sir."

Matthew studied the man before him. He was in his mid-thirties, with neatly combed brown hair, sharp eyes, and the quiet confidence of someone who knew how to navigate dangerous waters. He was neither imposing nor frail—simply ordinary, which made him all the more useful.

Collins gestured to the chair across from Matthew. "Have a seat."

Rhodes complied without hesitation.

"You’re a member of Bradford’s inner circle?" Matthew asked, his voice firm.

Rhodes smirked slightly. "Not quite, sir. But I work in the Capitol. I handle classified intelligence briefings. That means I have access to some of Bradford’s correspondences and meetings. And I’ve been paying attention."

Matthew leaned forward, eyes narrowing. "Why are you willing to help?"

Rhodes exhaled. "Because I know what he’s doing, sir. And I don’t want Amerathia to become something it was never meant to be."

Matthew exchanged a glance with Collins, who gave a small nod of approval.

Satisfied, Matthew straightened. "Tell me everything."

Rhodes wasted no time. "Bradford and his allies aren’t waiting for your veto, Mr. President. They’re moving ahead as if war is already declared. Troop deployments along the border are increasing, military spending has surged, and production contracts are already being issued. They’re setting everything in motion so that when the war is formally approved, Amerathia is ready to march."

Matthew clenched his jaw. "He’s forcing my hand."

Rhodes nodded grimly. "And that’s not all. Bradford isn’t just relying on political pressure. He’s planning another incident—something bigger than Fort McKinley."

He needed to hit back.

Collins was about to speak again when Matthew cut him off. "We need someone inside. Someone close enough to Bradford that they can hear exactly what’s coming."

Collins hesitated. "That’s not easy, sir. Rhodes is already our best bet, but he’s an observer. If we’re talking about infiltration..." He trailed off.

Matthew met his gaze. "We’re talking about infiltration."

Collins exhaled. "You understand how dangerous that is? If we get caught—if anyone gets caught—it’ll be seen as presidential overreach. And if Bradford finds out, he won’t just go after you politically."

Matthew’s expression hardened. "I’m aware."

Collins sighed, rubbing his temples. "There is someone. But you’re not going to like it."

Matthew leaned forward. "Who?"

Collins hesitated before answering. "His name is Elias Vaughn. A former military intelligence officer—he resigned after the war with Spain. He’s worked as a political consultant for some of the senators in Bradford’s circle."

Matthew raised an eyebrow. "A political consultant?"

Collins nodded. "Unofficially, he’s an operative. The kind who deals in blackmail, information leaks, and backroom deals. If anyone can get close to Bradford, it’s him."

Matthew exhaled slowly. "And can we trust him?"

Collins was quiet for a moment before answering. "We can buy him."

Matthew frowned but nodded. "Set a meeting. If Bradford wants to fight dirty, then so will we."

Collins hesitated. "Sir, this is dangerous."

Matthew’s gaze was cold. "So is war, Collins."

Collins nodded. "I’ll make the call."

As Collins left, Matthew leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling.

Bradford thought he had won.

But Matthew Hesh wasn’t finished yet.